UConn Health works to reach underserved population about HIV prevention NBC Connecticut [Video]

UConn Health in Farmington has been working to reach underserved populations and educate them about PrEP for HIV.

PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, is a medication people can take to prevent HIV, providing another alternative to condoms or abstinence.

The FDA approved the first PrEP medication in 2012.

Even after other drugs have come on the market, John Kajan, a patient at UConn Health, said he has noticed people still have reservations about it. So, he is spreading the word about his experience, including talking to a friend from home in Canada.

“He says, ‘Well I don’t think I need it. I’m not very frequent in my encounters.’ I said, ‘Well, it’s not about promiscuity, it’s about safety.’ It also takes away anxiety for me. It’s one less thing to worry about,” said Kajan, who now lives in New Haven.

“It’s like having a little shield on you all the time, and I feel safe with it,” Kajan added.

Kajan …